Page 27 of Hearts & Embers

"When can we see him?"

"He'll be moved to recovery shortly. Assuming everything remains stable, visitors should be able to see him within the hour."

The doctor answered several additional questions before returning to his other patients.

The moment he disappeared, everyone seemed to exhale simultaneously. Cody leaned back in his chair.

"That's the best outcome we could've hoped for."

I nodded.

"Thank you for calling me."

His expression softened slightly.

"I wasn't sure if I should."

"I'm glad you did."

The next hour passed more easily than the previous two. The uncertainty had been replaced by information, and information was considerably easier to handle. Jasper was injured and faced rehabilitation along with time away from work but most importantly, he was alive and expected to recover.

When a nurse finally informed us that two visitors were now permitted, Cody and I stood immediately.

Elyssa smiled and nodded.

"I'll be right here."

The nurse led us to a private room further along the corridor. By the time we arrived, my heartbeat had accelerated enough that I became uncomfortably aware of it. The nurse opened the door before quietly stepping aside.

Jasper lay propped against several pillows. His left shoulder was heavily bandaged and secured in a sling. Bruising had already begun forming along one side of his face, and fatigue was evident. Even so, his eyes immediately moved toward the doorway when we entered.

"There he is," Cody remarked.

Jasper managed a small smile.

Over the next several minutes they discussed the fire, the rescue, and the events immediately following the collapse. Jasper wanted to know whether the boy had been reunited with his mother and Cody confirmed that he had. He also provided updates regarding the crew back at Firehouse 99 who were waiting for news before they visited.

Eventually Cody glanced toward the bandages covering Jasper's shoulder.

"The doctor give you any idea when they're letting you out?"

"Tomorrow if everything looks good overnight."

Cody nodded.

"And after that?"

"Apparently I'm supposed to sit around doing nothing for two weeks."

"That should last about fifteen minutes."

A faint smile curved Jasper’s lips.

"Probably."

"The captain's already asked Ingrid to start putting together a roster."

Jasper frowned.